What does prevention look like before violence escalates? In many communities, it is not led by formal institutions or security actors, but by people who are rarely recognised in policy frameworks. During a series of events in March 2026, this reality took centre stage as practitioners, researchers and policymakers gathered in Utrecht and The Hague to reflect on the role of religious actors in preventing violent extremism. 

At the heart of these conversations were two Kenyan experts: Maureen Nyarangi Mwendiah and Dr. Samwel Oando. Drawing on years of research and field experience, they offered a perspective that challenges dominant approaches to prevention, and highlights the critical, yet often invisible, role of women. 

A shared moment for research and practice

On 19 March, Utrecht University hosted a symposium titled “Harnessing (female) religious leadership to counter violent extremism in Kenya and Nigeria.” The event brought together a diverse audience of students, academics and practitioners and was grounded in recent JISRA research on how religious leaders respond to violent extremism in Kenya and Nigeria. Drawing on extensive fieldwork, this research explores how faith actors contribute to resilience in communities affected by conflict and polarisation. 

As researcher Simon Polinder explained, religion is often approached as a risk factor in the context of violent extremism. Yet the research shows a different reality: religious leaders can act as a moderating force, helping communities navigate grievances before they escalate into violence. This perspective was further explored through reflections by Dr. David Ehrhard (Leiden University), who placed the findings within broader debates on prevention and polarisation. 

The invisible work of women

A central theme throughout the symposium was the role of women religious actors. In her contribution, Maureen Nyarangi shared insights from her research with women across Kenya. This research – which was translated into a policy brief on women religious actors in Kenya – shows how these women operate at the heart of their communities as early warning systems, mediators and trusted figures in times of tension. They are often the first to notice signs of radicalisation or conflict, and the ones who quietly intervene. Yet despite this, their work remains largely unrecognised in formal prevention frameworks. 

Their exclusion is not just a matter of representation, it has real consequences for the effectiveness of prevention strategies. As Nyarangi emphasised, recognising and supporting these actors is essential to building sustainable, community-based approaches to preventing violent extremism. 

From academic debate to policy reflection 

The symposium concluded with a panel discussion featuring Paul Bekkers, Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief. The exchange with the audience touched on key questions for policymakers: 

• How can prevention efforts move beyond securitised approaches? 

• What does it take to meaningfully support local, faith-based actors? 

• And how can funding better reach those already doing the work on the ground? 

These questions underline a broader shift: from top-down strategies towards approaches that are rooted in communities themselves. 

Continuing the conversation in The Hague 

Later that day, the discussion continued during the annual Kees Schilder Lecture at the Mensen met een Missie office in The Hague. 

In a more intimate setting, Maureen Nyarangi delivered a keynote titled “The frontline you don’t see: the hidden work of women religious actors preventing violent extremism in Kenya.” Her lecture brought the audience closer to the lived realities behind the research, highlighting stories of women who, often without recognition or resources, play a crucial role in maintaining peace. 

Dr. Samwel Oando and Dr. Kees Schilder responded with reflections from both practice and long-standing experience, followed by an open discussion with participants. The exchange created space not only for analysis, but also for connection: between those working on policy, research and implementation. 

Why this matters now 

Across both events, one message stood out: effective prevention does not start in policy frameworks; it starts in communities. The research presented during the week reinforces this insight. By recognising the role of religious actors – and in particular women – there is an opportunity to strengthen early warning systems, build trust and address tensions before they escalate. 

At a time when violent extremism and polarisation continue to affect communities worldwide, these insights are more relevant than ever.